along with beautiful artwork for moms that want to remember every detail for years to come
RALEIGH newborn, maternity, & family PHOTOGRAPHER
full service, stress free
A beautiful and authentic Raleigh newborn, maternity or family session, with cohesive perfectly styled outfits, without the stress of buying one time outfits for your entire family.
An easy laid back luxury experience, with me reducing your mental load and taking all the stress off you so you can focus on time with your children!
Beautiful custom artwork that captures the essence and spirit of your family, meant to be handed down through the generations.
A supportive cheerleader who has been in your shoes before ready to serve you throughout the entire process!
Imagine This...
Let's plan a session that truly reflects who you are. After a relaxed baby/child led session, I'll create custom wall galleries and heirloom albums, turning your moments into lifelong treasures. I can't wait to help you fill your walls with precious family memories so when you look back in ten tears you will be able to remember and relive all the emotions that took place during this sweet time!
I offer a client wardrobe for moms and babies, along with hair and makeup coordination.
As your Raleigh newborn & MATERNITY photographer
As a Raleigh newborn photographer I serve the Triangle area, but live in Apex, NC with my family. I’m a wife, mama of 2, and dog mama! As a mom I know the mental load we all carry which is why I make it my mission to serve you and make the experience as stress free as possible so you can focus on loving your littles and taking in all the sweet moments with them.
I’m so happy you’re here!
Hi Mama, I’m Kristin!
"We had a wonderful family photo session with Kristin!! We have two littles (3 & 5), and she was so great at engaging with them and keeping the shoot interesting and fun for them."
"Working with Kristin was fantastic! She made the experience feel so comfortable for my husband and I - two people who do not like taking photos. We both left the shoot on a high, feeling so happy and energized.
"Kristin is magical behind the camera. She gets shots that you didn’t think could happen and makes the entire process effortless. 10/10 highly recommend Kristin. You won’t be disappointed!"
The holidays are a magical time in Raleigh, NC! Whether you’re decking the halls at home or exploring all the festive cheer the area has to offer, there’s no shortage of ways to make the season memorable. As a Raleigh family photographer and Apex newborn photographer, I’ve spent years capturing special holiday moments, and I’m here to share my top three must-see holiday activities to enjoy with your family this Christmas season.
1. Stroll Through the NC Museum of Art’s “Winter Lights”
The NC Museum of Art’s “Winter Lights” is a dazzling holiday experience you can’t miss. Picture this: your little ones’ eyes lighting up as they wander through twinkling displays, all set against the backdrop of the museum’s stunning outdoor park. It’s the perfect setting for a family outing, and yes, the photo opportunities are endless!
If you’re planning your holiday family photo session, this location offers dreamy, seasonal vibes that pair beautifully with coordinating outfits. Pro tip: Layer in cozy textures like sweaters and scarves for extra warmth and style—the light displays will do the rest!
2. Cut Your Own Tree at a Local Christmas Tree Farm
Nothing says Christmas quite like the fresh scent of pine. Bundle up the kids and head to a nearby Christmas tree farm, like Jordan Lake Christmas Tree Farm or Back Achers Tree Farm. Not only can you pick out the perfect tree for your living room, but you can also enjoy hot cocoa and wagon rides—making it a full-blown holiday adventure.
As a Raleigh newborn photographer, I know how precious those first holiday traditions are for families. A trip to the tree farm is not only a great memory but also a meaningful backdrop for a holiday session. Imagine the charm of candid photos with your family laughing, playing, and choosing the tree that will hold all your ornaments this year.
3. Ice Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater’s Winter Wonderland
Transform your family’s holiday season into a storybook moment with ice skating under the stars at Red Hat Amphitheater. The rink’s downtown Raleigh location means you’ll be surrounded by sparkling city lights and festive decor, creating an enchanting winter wonderland vibe.
Don’t worry if you’re not a pro skater (most of us aren’t!); the laughter from all those wobbly moments makes for the best memories. Plus, this is a top choice for family photography! As an Apex family photographer, I love capturing playful moments—like your toddler holding onto the rink wall for dear life or your partner gliding in for a handhold. It’s authentic and heartwarming, just like your family.
Make Your Holiday Memories Last
The holiday season in Raleigh is brimming with opportunities for family fun, and each of these activities offers something special. Whether you’re starting new traditions or continuing old ones, these moments deserve to be remembered forever. That’s where I come in!
As a Raleigh newborn and family photographer serving Apex and beyond, I’m here to help you document these magical times. From cozy sessions at Christmas tree farms to city-lit adventures downtown, let’s create heirloom-quality memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Ready to book your holiday session? Check out Kristin Marie Photography NC to secure your spot and get ready for a stress-free experience that delivers timeless, heartfelt photos.
The holiday season is a magical time to make memories with your family, and Raleigh, NC, offers countless ways to celebrate together. From twinkling light displays to festive performances, there’s something to enchant every member of your family. As a Raleigh Family Photographer, I know how special these moments are, and there’s no better way to savor the holiday spirit than by experiencing these joyful Christmas activities in Raleigh.
Take in a Performance of The Nutcracker
Raleigh’s Memorial Auditorium hosts the breathtaking Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker. This timeless story, paired with Tchaikovsky’s enchanting score, will captivate audiences of all ages. Share the wonder of this classic Christmas tradition with your family and create memories to last a lifetime. The show runs December 12-24 and tickets can be purchased online.
North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival
Kick off your holiday season with a visit to the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival in nearby Cary. While not your traditional Christmas experience, this dazzling event features larger-than-life lantern displays that sparkle with vibrant colors and intricate designs. It’s a fantastic way to explore a unique cultural celebration while enjoying the magic of the Christmas lights. Plus, it’s a perfect backdrop for impromptu family photos! The event runs from November 16th, 2024 through January 12, 2025.
Experience the Raleigh Christmas Parade
The annual Raleigh Christmas Parade is the largest in the Southeast and a must-attend event for families. Watch as floats, marching bands, and performers bring holiday cheer to downtown Raleigh. Bundle up the family, pack some chairs and arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the excitement as your kids wave to Santa at the parade’s grand finale.
Date: November 23rd, 2024
Ice Skating at Red Hat Amphitheater
Nothing says “Christmas” like gliding on an ice rink under the stars. The outdoor rink at Red Hat Amphitheater offers a magical experience for all ages. Bundle up in your coziest sweaters, lace up your skates, and enjoy a wintery activity that’s perfect for holiday bonding. And don’t forget to grab a warm drink afterward at one of Raleigh’s nearby cafes!
Dates: November 23rd, 2024 through January 20th, 2025
Tickets: $15 and includes skate rental. Tickets can be bought online or in-person.
Lights on the Neuse
For a classic Christmas light experience, head to Lights on the Neuse in nearby Clayton. This enchanting event offers a hayride through a dazzling display of holiday lights, along with visits to Santa’s Sweet Shoppe for treats and hot cocoa. The charming country setting adds a unique touch that your family will treasure.
Dates: November 29th, 2024 – December 24th, 2024
Tickets can be purchased online or at the farm.
Five Joyful Christmas Activities in Raleigh
Raleigh is brimming with festive fun for families, and these Christmas activities in Raleigh are the perfect way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re gliding on the ice, taking in the magic of The Nutcracker, or enjoying the Christmas parade, don’t forget to capture these precious memories with your loved ones.
As a Raleigh Family Photographer, I would love to help you preserve the joy of the holidays with a cozy family session that captures the warmth and connection of the season. Let’s create beautiful heirloom photos to cherish for years to come. Contact me today to book your session and make this holiday season one to remember!
Looking for the perfect gift for a mom who loves capturing every family moment? We all know that one mom who always has her camera or phone at the ready, snapping photos of her kids’ milestones, everyday giggles, and everything in between. This Christmas, why not give her something that makes capturing these moments even more special? From thoughtful photography tools that make it easier to preserve beautiful memories to gifting her a professional session so she can finally be in the photos with her family, these photography gifts for moms will leave her feeling appreciated and inspired. After all, there’s no better gift than helping her hold onto the moments she loves most.
1. Instant Photo Printer
For the mom who loves capturing life’s little moments, an instant photo printer is the perfect gift to bring those memories to life. While snapping photos on a phone is quick and convenient, too often those special moments end up forgotten in the cloud. With an instant photo printer, she can easily print her favorite pictures and enjoy them as tangible keepsakes, ready to display or share. I recommend this instant photo printer, which is not only user-friendly but also works seamlessly with iPhone, Android, and PC. It creates beautiful 4×6 prints, perfect for framing or gifting, and ensures that her cherished memories don’t just stay digital but become part of her home and her heart.
2. Compact Mirrorless Camera
No photography gift guide for moms would be complete without a few camera recommendations! While the camera on your phone is fantastic for capturing everyday moments, I know some moms are eager to take their skills to the next level. Thankfully, there are some amazing cameras out there that are perfect for learning and growth without breaking the bank. One camera I think she’ll absolutely love is the Canon EOS RP. Known for its exceptional photo and video capabilities, this lightweight and easy-to-use camera is perfect for a mom interested in content creation or exploring the world of small session films. I would pair this camera with the Canon 50mm F1.8 lens.
Another great option is the Sony Alpha a6400 mirrorless camera, paired with a 50mm F1.8 lens. This lens is one of my absolute favorites for beginners because it’s so versatile! With outstanding picture quality and impressive autofocus, this compact camera is a wonderful choice for a mom stepping into the world of photography. Whether she’s capturing family memories or starting a creative journey, these cameras will help her tell her story beautifully.
3. Lightweight Tripod
One of my favorite additions to this ultimate photography gift guide for moms is a tripod—it’s a true game-changer! With a tripod, moms can finally step out from behind the camera and join the memories being made, capturing the whole family together. It’s such a simple tool, but it holds the power to include mom in the moments she treasures most. Personally, I’ve always loved having two tripods: one for my phone and another for my camera.
For her phone, I highly recommend the ATUMEK 51” Selfie Stick Tripod. This lightweight and compact tripod is a lifesaver—it easily fits in my purse or tucks away in a desk drawer when I’m not using it. It’s perfect for quick setups during family outings or even spontaneous selfies at home. Check it out here!
For her camera, the Three Legged Thing Punks Tripod is my go-to. I trust it completely with my professional gear. It’s lightweight, folds down to just 14 inches, and sets up in no time, making it ideal for on-the-go adventures or special family photo sessions. It’s reliable, durable, and has been such a wonderful companion in capturing life’s beautiful moments.
4. Stylish Camera Bag
Now that we’ve talked about cameras, let’s talk about the perfect bag—one that not only keeps her camera safe but also fits seamlessly into her everyday life. She deserves something that provides protection, easy access, and enough room for her daily essentials, too. A stylish, functional camera bag that doubles as an everyday purse is truly a game-changer. As a mom, I know how important it is to find something durable yet beautiful, which is why I’m partial to leather bags—they’re timeless and built to last. One of my favorites is a leather camera backpack, with plenty of pockets to keep everything organized. It even has a spot for her laptop, a side pocket for her water bottle, and the inside is fully customizable with padded dividers to create just the right space for her camera, lenses, and more.
Another great option is the Meliaebag, a sleek purse-style bag that’s perfect for carrying her camera along with a few other essentials. While I adore the classic brown leather, it also comes in a lovely pink and a chic black, so she can pick the one that matches her style. With a bag like this, she’ll be ready for anything—from family outings to everyday errands—all while having her camera close at hand to capture those precious, fleeting moments.
5. A Family Session
One of the most thoughtful gifts you can give to a mom who loves taking family photos is a gift card or even scheduling a spring family session just for her. While that new compact camera and tripod are wonderful tools, nothing compares to the magic of professional photos taken by someone who knows how to capture those in-between moments she cherishes. As a mother and a Raleigh family photographer, I know how special it is for moms to not have to worry about setting timers, directing poses, or coaxing smiles from little ones while trying to jump into the shot herself. A professional session lets her relax, be present, and truly enjoy the time with her family while someone else handles the details. It’s a gift that ensures she’s part of the story, surrounded by genuine smiles and laughter, creating timeless images she’ll treasure forever.
Top Gifts for Moms who Love Taking Photos
Finding the best camera gear for moms can be a meaningful way to show her how much her passion for capturing family memories is appreciated. From a lightweight tripod that ensures she’s in every frame to a stylish camera bag that makes every outing feel effortless, these thoughtful gifts are designed to make her photography journey even more special. For an unforgettable experience, consider gifting her a professional family session with a Raleigh family photographer. It’s a heartfelt way to ensure she’s included in the cherished moments she works so hard to preserve, surrounded by the love and laughter of her family.
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